Every couple of years, something magical happens. The world hits pause, gathers around screens big and small, and collectively holds its breath as athletes chase moments they’ve dreamed about since childhood.
The Olympics aren’t just about medals or records; they’re about connection. Sports have this incredible way of turning strangers into teammates. One minute you’re enjoying a beer at your local pub and the next you’re high-fiving someone you’ve never met because a Canadian skater just nailed a perfect landing. It’s community in its purest form and makes even the toughest amongst us get teary-eyed as we hear our national anthem played when we win a gold medal.
The Olympics reminds us how deeply connected we are and how quickly a stranger’s dream can become our own. It pulls us together in a way only sports can, uniting us as we proudly wear our country’s colours and lose ourselves in the stories behind the athletes. The courage it took to get there, the perseverance through setbacks, the triumphs that make us cheer and the heartbreaks that feel like our own.
And downtown Calgary is ready for all the action!
Watch the Olympics downtown
If you’re looking for places to cheer, celebrate and maybe shed a prideful tear or two, here are some great downtown spots showing Olympic coverage from Feb. 2 – 22, 2026. Go Canada Go!
P.S.! Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) has granted expanded liquor service hours during the 2026 Winter Olympics. Restaurants and bars can serve liquor with expanded hours during Olympic medal events for any sport. Check restaurant and bar websites for more information!
